Textile Respiratory Mask Interface That Deforms Without Seal Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional respiratory masks have rigid structures that restrict user movement, cause discomfort, and have an unappealing clinical appearance, while textile masks lack structure and are prone to collapsing.
Innovation Solution
A respiratory mask interface with a silicone seal and a resilient fabric housing that deforms under external pressure and returns to its original shape, featuring a flexible support structure to maintain a seal and comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid mask interface structure is used, then the mask maintains its shape and provides stable support, but the user's ability to change sleeping positions is restricted and discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mask interface incorporates a flexible textile shell that can deform when contacting pillows or bedding, allowing users to change sleeping positions freely. The textile material provides the necessary flexibility while maintaining the mask's functional integrity through the integrated seal and support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask interface transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can adapt its shape in response to external forces. The textile housing allows the mask to conform to different positions and pressures, providing both stability when needed and flexibility when users move during sleep.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid mask interface structure is used, then the mask provides stable support, but the clinical appearance is unappealing and user compliance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The textile housing provides a soft, less clinical appearance that is more appealing to users in a bedroom setting. The fabric material naturally conveys a more comfortable and aesthetic appearance while the integrated support structures maintain the necessary structural stability for functional performance.
3Ease of operation
If a fully textile mask interface is used, then the mask avoids sleep position difficulties and has a less clinical appearance, but the mask lacks structure and is prone to collapsing
Solution Approach 1:
The mask interface combines textile housing material with integrated support structures to create a composite construction. The textile provides flexibility and aesthetic appeal, while the embedded support structures (such as rigid or semi-rigid frames, stiffening elements, or structural seams) maintain the mask's three-dimensional shape and prevent collapsing when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask interface is divided into functional segments: a flexible textile housing for comfort and aesthetics, and separate support structures (frames, ribs, or stiffening elements) for structural integrity. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while working together as an integrated system.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a fully textile mask interface is used, then the mask is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing, but it is more difficult to use and reshape
Solution Approach 1:
The combination of textile housing with integrated support structures provides both the aesthetic comfort and the structural definition needed for easy handling and application. The support structures give the mask its shape, making it easier to manipulate, position, and reshape during application while maintaining the comfortable textile exterior.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The mask interface allows for comfortable user movement without losing the seal and has a less clinical appearance, enhancing user compliance with respiratory therapy.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the mask housing is formed from fabric and comprises a first flexible, resilient support structure configured to at least partially retain the 3-dimensional shape of the mask housing
Data Source
AI summary
A mask interface for a respiratory mask, in which the mask interface comprises a resilient mask housing at least partially formed from a textile and being configured to deform under pressure from an external force, such as when being pressed against a pillow, and to substantially return to its original shape either automatically or by manipulation by a user.